The goal of advocacy is to change an elected official’s perception of the arts from “nice” to “essential.” Nice is expendable. Essential gets support, no matter the economic circumstances. Advocacy is necessary for the arts to thrive and is a core responsibility of arts supporters. People who care about issues should get involved in every election. Know who is running for office, set a meeting, write a letter, deliver a message about arts funding and policy, volunteer for the candidate, make a contribution, attend community forums and ask for candidate views on public support for the arts.

After the election, write a letter of introduction and congratulations, send invitations to arts events, know their supporters, send regular communications that detail arts impact in their district.

The Message should include both data and narrative (story) and if possible, be specific to their district. Most arts advocacy message center around economic impact, recruitment and retention of skilled workers and businesses, revitalized communities, education, and cultural tourism. Know your official’s key issues and tailor your message.